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Gravesham council thanks hundreds of volunteers and workers for efforts during coronavirus outbreak

A council has paid tribute to the "amazing and selfless" work carried out by hundreds of volunteers and community workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Communities across Gravesend have rallied together to support vulnerable residents throughout the lockdown period.

The virus outbreak prompted a huge response which saw support groups set up to assist vulnerable people and deliver food and medicines, among other vital services.

Gravesham council has released a video praising the efforts of workers and volunteers in this time, using the hashtag #onecommunity.

At the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara members wake up at 6am each day to prepare and deliver food parcels to NHS workers at Darent Valley Hospital.

Elsewhere, the Gravesend Methodist Church's Daytime Hub, led by Vicki Clarke, has been preparing hot cooked meals for rough sleepers.

Other shout outs included the Beacon Day Support Centre for Alzheimer's and Dementia for keepings its members connected online and the residents of Bonaventure Court who have been hosting Clap for Carers events.

The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend has been delivering meals to Darent Valley Hospital
The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend has been delivering meals to Darent Valley Hospital

Gravesham council also listed some of the ways in which its own workers had rallied during this difficult period.

The sudden upheaval of everyday life saw parking attendants redeployed into new roles as the council carried out more than 10,000 welfare checks.

This resulted in around 8000 vulnerable or isolated residents being support in some way and more than 150 food parcels delivered.

Existing operations were also bolstered with the council reporting it had increased the volume of household waste collected each week to 30% above pre-lockdown levels.

Support was also offered financially to residents with council tax relief for more than 4,000 families.

In addition to this 1,145 local businesses received support grants totalling more than £14.1m.

Council officers have been carrying out welfare checks with vulnerable residents
Council officers have been carrying out welfare checks with vulnerable residents

An accompanying message posted with the video read: "Community groups, charities, and individuals rallied round to support the vulnerable and isolated in our Borough and to help keep spirits high.

"Here at Gravesham Borough Council, we are so grateful to all of those who stepped up and helped out. This is our way of saying thank you to you all."

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend

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